Honoring the Heroes of ECRC's Story
On October 16, we honored 25 individuals and organizations whose unwavering commitment, partnership, and compassion have shaped the Early Childhood Resource Center's story in profound ways. Whether through bold advocacy, tireless service, or transformative collaboration, these heroes have left an indelible mark on our mission—and on the lives we touch every day. We celebrate the inspiration they continue to spark in all of us and are grateful for the part they play in the Early Childhood Resource Center's legacy.
Read more about our honorees, pictured below.
| | Above are representatives from our community partner honorees, including Julie Abiecunas of JRC, Beth Kelley of the Akron YMCA, David James of Summit Education Initiative, Gail Montana, Mary Leahy & Elizabeth Coldren (accepting on behalf of the late Dr. Peter Leahy), Mary Ellen Icaza of Stark County District Library, Dr. Cecilia Schweitzer of Psychological & Educational Solutions, Linnea Olbon of Canton City School District, and Tracy Jordan of Happy Campers. | Pictured above are advocate honorees Vicki Conley and Sister Judith Ann Karam. (Not present: Joni Close.) | Above are representatives from our community funder honorees, including Angela Perisic of United Way of Greater Stark County, Joseph Luckring of PNC, Laura DiCola of GAR Foundation, and Marisa Rohn of Sisters of Charity Health Foundation. (Not present: representatives from the Deuble Foundation.) | | |
Above are representatives from our (former) staff honorees, including Geri Grove, Cindy Gansmiller, Lynette Oaks Fulmer and Inta Lewis (accepting on behalf of the late Leslie Deem), and Danette Bosh Alexander. (Not present: Scott Hasselman.)
| Above are representatives our long-time volunteer honorees and donors, including Brad Belden, Robert & Kathy Belden, and Sherry Kauffman. | |
The Early Childhood Resource Center’s 25th Anniversary Celebration is officially in the books—and what a beautiful chapter it was!
With nearly 300 attendees joining us, our hearts are as full as the room was on the night of our event, bursting with gratitude. We greatly appreciate all of our sponsors, honorees, guests, and volunteers for helping make this milestone event such a success.
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Thanks to the generosity of supporters like you, this year's event raised more than $75,000 to support children and families in our communities.
Miss the event or just want to relive it? View our 25th Anniversary recap/photo gallery at www.ecresourcecenter.org/25years to see how we celebrated 25 years of impact.
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Your gift supports families in our local community.
Through the generosity of individuals like you, we are able to offer programming, resources, trainings, and referrals in the following counties: Portage, Mahoning, Medina, Stark, Summit, and Trumbull.
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Youngstown Area
Goodwill Industries
For generations, Youngstown Area Goodwill Industries has been a pillar of support across five counties in Eastern Ohio and Western Pennsylvania. While many know Goodwill for its retail stores and donation centers, the organization’s mission extends far beyond shopping and donations. Every day, Goodwill works to elevate good, empower individuals, and help people achieve their goals — especially those facing barriers to employment or independence.
The Heart of Goodwill: Mission Services
Goodwill’s Mission Services form the foundation of its work. These programs help individuals overcome challenges, gain valuable skills, and improve their quality of life.
Core Mission Programs
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Job training and placement:
Preparing individuals for the workforce with skills that lead to lasting employment.
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Vocational rehabilitation:
Supporting those recovering from injury or disability as they regain independence.
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Work experience opportunities:
Creating pathways for individuals with disabilities to develop confidence and ability.
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Community-based programs:
Addressing local needs through initiatives that build stronger, more inclusive communities.
Through these services, Goodwill provides more than assistance — it offers empowerment, dignity, and the tools to achieve success.
Read More...
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Early Childhood Resource Center
A Child Care Resource and Referral Agency
proudly serving Mahoning, Medina, Portage, Stark, Summit, and Trumbull counties.
Visit our website ecresourcecenter.org or call 330-491-3272
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